Indian Railways has transported over 15 million passengers so far during the festive season, with numbers expected to surpass 25 million by the end of the period. To manage the surge in travellers, 30 major stations across Bihar and nearby areas in Uttar Pradesh have been equipped with large holding areas for smoother crowd management. Enhanced Festive Arrangements Across Key Stations To ensure convenient travel, railway staff are working round the clock to assist passengers and maintain order so that everyone reaches home safely for the festivals. With Chhath Puja underway, Indian Railways has further strengthened its arrangements to handle the peak travel rush. At Patna Railway Station, a dedicated holding area has been established for passengers’ convenience, supported by 24×7 CCTV monitoring for enhanced safety. Similar facilities have been set up at Danapur Railway Station, with medical teams and ambulances on standby to handle emergencies. At Rajendra Nagar Terminal, staff are assisting passengers requiring special support, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and pleasant journey during the Chhath festival. Stations across Bihar have also been provided with additional ticket counters, CCTV surveillance, and improved amenities to enhance passenger comfort. Passenger Praise for Improved Services Passengers have expressed satisfaction with the cleanliness, punctuality, and overall management this festive season. Many have highlighted the ease of booking, clean coaches, and efficient handling of crowds at major stations. A traveller from Jamalpur Railway Station noted that increased special trains helped reduce congestion, while another appreciated the well-maintained facilities and smooth travel experience. One passenger thanked Indian Railways for maintaining cleanliness and playing traditional Chhath melodies at stations — a move that added to the spiritual and festive atmosphere. Vande Bharat Express Adds to Festive Cheer In a first-of-its-kind initiative, a special Vande Bharat Express has been introduced between New Delhi and Patna for the Chhath festival. The train plays traditional Chhath songs, adding to the excitement of passengers travelling home. Nationwide, 156 Vande Bharat Express services are currently operational, with this additional service further easing festive travel demand. Continued Investment in Infrastructure In recent years, Indian Railways has made remarkable progress through sustained investment in infrastructure. The number of special trains, once only a few hundred, has now reached record levels. Similarly, track construction has expanded dramatically — from just 400–600 km per year a decade ago to over 4,000 km per year today. Commitment to Passenger Comfort and Safety With its vast network, dedicated workforce, and passenger-centric approach, Indian Railways continues to uphold its commitment to safe, clean, and reliable travel. From running extra trains to maintaining cleanliness, punctuality, and safety, every initiative reflects the organisation’s mission to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for millions of passengers during the festive season.